Networking is a crucial skill for property professionals—but for some people, it’s excruciating. How can you expand your influence? Caitlin Lee, property manager for NAI Hallmark, will moderate a Sunday morning panel at the 2026 BOMA International Conference & Expo aimed at helping building owners and managers improve the way they network—and advance their careers while they’re at it.
The panel will also feature four other experts ready to share real-world examples of how they’ve navigated networking challenges, built trust, and positioned themselves for leadership:
- Tyler Courson, president of Core Executive Recruiting
- Kimberley Jackson-Hagwood, managing director of property management for Stream Realty Partners
- Lisa Krumwiede, director for ML Realty Partners
- Andria Smith, associate with The Home Depot
Success in commercial real estate isn’t just about market knowledge, Lee explained. It’s about building relationships and communicating your value clearly. “BOMA is great because it’s not one of those networking things you go to where you have to hand out a business card and try to sell yourself and your company,” she said. “It’s about building relationships with other principal members and associates.”
Networking Tips for Professionals at All Levels
The panel promises to deliver strategies that open doors for attendees, whether they’re just starting out in commercial real estate or looking to level up in their careers. Lee shared a few networking tips attendees can put into practice right away:
- Believe in yourself first to inspire other people. “If you don’t believe in what you’re managing, the people you’re managing, or your job—whether you’re scooping poop at the circus or you’re a CEO—it’s hard for anyone to get behind you or support you,” Lee explained. “If you can meet people, connect, and get them involved, that ties in with your leadership as you grow.”
- Know where your interests lie. You don’t always have to focus on shop talk, Lee said: “Pick what you’re interested in and then it will be easier,” she said. “Find a common interest with someone.”
- Bring a buddy to networking events. Attend outings with a colleague—preferably someone who already knows another attendee and can introduce you.
- Understand your own communication style and lean into it. “Being true to yourself no matter what will help you in any capacity,” Lee said. “Figure out who you are and how you communicate.”
Ready to register for the 2026 BOMA International Conference & Expo? Sign up today and get ready to expand your knowledge!
